The year 2024 marked a significant decline in Morocco across various sectors. Endemic corruption, a sweeping assault on freedoms, and the state’s continued exploitation of drug trafficking to serve its colonial agenda have fueled growing public outrage. These dynamics have driven Morocco further into crisis under the reign of the Makhzen (the ruling elite).
Endemic Corruption and Political Exploitation
Morocco’s political landscape in 2024 has been marred by the intertwining of wealth and politics. The Makhzen and its affiliates dominate public contracts and privatize state services for the benefit of influential business figures. Reports from international organizations like Transparency International reveal Morocco’s persistently low ranking in global corruption indices, highlighting the lack of accountability in the country.
Economic conditions have worsened significantly, with unemployment reaching 21.3%. Hundreds of businesses have declared bankruptcy, and severe droughts persist as the government prioritizes water-intensive luxury agriculture over sustainability.
Drug Trade and Regional Destabilization
Morocco continues to lead in the global drug trade, operating extensive networks with the involvement of its ally, Israel. This alliance has been utilized to disrupt African security and exploit the continent’s resources. The illicit profits are used to bribe decision-makers and undermine international norms, creating a means of coercion against European states.
According to a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, Morocco’s annual cannabis production exceeds 700 tons, generating an estimated $23 billion in profits. Other drugs, including hard substances trafficked from South America and Asia, also transit through Morocco under the protection of Makhzen-affiliated networks.
Social and Humanitarian Catastrophes
On the social front, a harrowing video from late 2024 showing a pregnant woman transported to a hospital on a funeral bier underscored the dire state of public services. Citizens face rampant inflation, declining purchasing power, and lack access to basic necessities.
Adding to this grim picture, the Makhzen exploits the suffering caused by natural disasters like earthquakes and floods to secure international loans, further plunging the country into debt and compromising its political sovereignty.
The regime also weaponizes migration, using desperate youth fleeing economic hardship as bargaining chips in negotiations with the European Union. In exchange for funding, Morocco plays the role of border enforcer while ignoring the root causes of emigration.
Repression of Freedoms
Morocco has intensified its crackdown on dissent. Journalists, activists, and anti-normalization advocates face arbitrary arrests, sham trials, and systematic harassment. The government has introduced repressive laws that stifle freedoms and silence critics, exacerbating public discontent.
Growing Protests
In response to worsening conditions, the Moroccan people have increasingly taken to the streets, despite the regime’s heavy-handed security measures. Protests have erupted across sectors, with teachers, doctors, and workers demanding reforms and accountability. Meanwhile, thousands of citizens risk their lives in perilous sea crossings to escape the escalating repression and despair.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
